Manchester City have moved ahead of Arsenal in the race for a big-money midfield signing this summer, according to Sky Sports.
The Cityzens are looking to revamp their midfield this summer and have already completed a £116m move to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, but there are question marks over the future of Rodri, who has been targeted by Jose Mourinho and Real Madrid.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are also keen to bring in competition and depth for Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice in their midfield, but they have now fallen behind in the race for one star who looks set to be on the move.
Man City Hijack Arsenal Move for Bouaddi
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Morocco at the 2026 World CupBurt Granofsky/Cal Sport Media/Sipa USA
According to Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Man City have moved ahead of the Gunners in the race to sign Lille's teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi this summer.
Bouaddi is considered one of the top midfield prospects in world football, and shone at the World Cup with his performances for Morocco, as they reached the quarter-finals. A number of clubs have paid close attention to his situation, and it's reported that the north London club were leading the race for his signature as recently as a few weeks ago.
However, Arsenal have since turned their full attention to completing a deal for Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes, which has allowed Man City to swoop in and hold more talks with Lille.
Arsenal are now in advanced talks with Newcastle over a deal worth in excess of £75m for the Brazilian, and City are stepping up their pursuit of Bouaddi. Lille are holding out for a €100m (£87m) fee, but City want to close the deal for €90m (£77m).
Lille are also hopeful of securing a loan back for another season, but City want to bring Bouaddi to the Etihad this year, to help balance the squad amid Rodri's impending departure. Bouaddi has already agreed a contract until 2031 with the FA Cup holders, and the only thing remaining is an agreement on the fee between the clubs.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Arsenal Prioritising Present Over Future
Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes celebrates vs Crystal Palacevia Reuters
Arsenal's move for Guimaraes has dominated their summer plans so far, and it's clear that they are prioritising winning now over setting up for the future.
After winning the Premier League last season and reaching the Champions League final, Mikel Arteta knows he is only a few pieces away from a dynasty in north London, and someone like Bouaddi, while talented, would need more time to make an impact.
City have the benefit of being able to have balance already, and Bouaddi's arrival now looks like a matter of time. But Arsenal have made their decision, and now must simply ensure they get a deal for Guimaraes over the line to avoid looking silly.
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